Beware of Counterfeit Weight-Loss Drugs

The global weight-loss craze that began with GLP-1 receptor agonist weight-loss injections has started to turn into a serious public health threat. According to a review published in a major journal, high drug prices, inadequate insurance coverage, and pressure to lose weight quickly have led to the rapid spread of counterfeit versions of drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide. Experts note that counterfeit products are entering the US and markets worldwide, particularly via Mexico and online platforms.

At the end of 2025, the FDA issued an alert about counterfeit semaglutide products and announced that some products had been put on the market with genuine serial numbers. The World Health Organization reported that counterfeit GLP-1 products have been detected in about 60 countries. These products may contain no active ingredient, may contain incorrect doses, or may cause severe hypoglycemia and fatal reactions due to toxic contamination.

Experts also point to the rapid increase in use without a prescription, use in beauty centers, and unregulated preparations. They emphasize that GLP-1 drugs used without clinical follow-up pose risks in terms of gallbladder disease, dosing errors, and drug interactions.

In conclusion, counterfeit weight-loss drugs are on the verge of becoming a health crisis

Source

Cousins, S. (2026). The boom in counterfeit obesity drugs. The Lancet. Early online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(26)00461-7